Be devoted to one another in love.
Honor one another above yourselves.
Romans 12:10
Priceless Friends
I was an Air Force brat growing up. We moved almost every two years setting up temporary homes in Alabama, Germany, Michigan, Turkey, Washington DC, Florida, and Brazil. To protect myself from the pain of loss, I made and kept very few dear friends until after I married and settled down in Wilmore, KY where we have lived now for almost 32 years in one home, one town and one state.
Our sons and their wives have grown up feeling the security of a permanent home with fond memories and stories. I even taught high school English to my sons and Stacey (now, our eldest son’s wife). Stacey made many dear girlfriends while attending our small Christian High School; and they are still close, loving buddies even though their high school career ended about 17 years ago.
At least once a year, Stacey and her priceless high school companions take time away from being a mother, wife, chef and home organizer to spend time together. Their precious weekend together is often sequestered in a secluded, quiet get-away. The husbands always stepped up to the plate to help with the children often with grandparent assistance. And these cherished, young mothers always appreciate the time together to reacquaint their friendship and grow in their faith.
This past October, Stacey’s sweet mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer, and after a short but difficult battle, she went Home to be with Jesus, Nov 14th. It was a tough time for all of us. But, Stacey’s sweet colleagues became a tremendously invaluable help. They organized and served the meal after the Memorial Service. Some made a four-hour trip to Nashville just to serve and honor their dear friend and her family during this heart wrenching time.
And I was reminded of Jesus’ words. “Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” I John 4:11
These beautiful, former students of mine taught me a lesson I will never forget. “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Ephesians 4:2
I am so proud of my girls for the devoted love and sincere compassion they showed. They were unselfish in their desire to serve. They emulated the true meaning of love. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” 1 Corinthians 13:4
